Gynecomastia is commonly known as man boobs or gyno. It is the enlargement of a man’s breast tissue, causing a visible chest swelling. All men, just like women, have breast tissue. In most men, and for most of their life, their hormonal balance means that male breast tissue remains small and not visible through the skin. If breast tissue enlarges it is called gynecomastia, or if fatty tissue builds up in the area it is known as pseudogynecomastia. Often, man boobs are a combination of both problems.

For many men no treatment is needed. For example, gynecomastia during puberty usually goes away on its own over time; for others, a change in medication may be all that is needed. As well as these factors, losing weight and doing exercises to target the chest area are simple changes that can have the biggest results.

Gynecomastia treatment

When a doctor has ruled out serious causes for gynecomastia, and if diet and exercise hasn’t worked, some men will want to consider treatment to get rid of their man boobs.

In most cases, gynecomastia treatment is not covered by health insurance plans, so the price of any treatment needs to be carefully considered. Many treatments are advertised on the internet, targeted specifically at men with gynecomastia. Creams and gels to rub into the area, and pills and homeopathic treatments are all available. It is sometimes also possible to receive prescribed medication from a doctor.

The results from medication and creams may often be disappointing. Most doctors recommend surgery as the most effective treatment for breast reduction in troubling gynecomastia. Having an operation is obviously a big decision; the advantages and possible risks need to be carefully considered before making a decision to proceed. Pseudogynecomastia may be treated by liposuction to remove just fatty tissue, while gynecomastia will usually need a mastectomy to remove the breast tissue itself.

Gynecomastia treatment costs

So, what does gynecomastia treatment cost? Creams or pills bought over the internet can be very expensive – particularly as results often take many months to become visible. Creams can cost around $80 per month, and pills around $70 per month.

How much does gynecomastia surgery cost?

If you are considering surgery, you will want to know how much it costs. Gynecomastia surgery costs vary greatly and depend on a wide range of factors. The first is where you live and where you are having the treatment. Within the US, the price will be different between large populous cities and more rural areas. For other countries, prices may be significantly lower. Although price is obviously very important when considering self-funded surgery, it is also crucial to think about other things. As well as the cost of gynecomastia surgery, other factors which are essential to consider include:

Making sure you are close to someone to help care for you after the procedure

Gynecomastia liposuction costs

Liposuction for breast reduction may cost less than a mastectomy. Some clinics quote around $3000 for the surgeon’s fee. It is important to make sure this treatment really will deal with the problem, rather than just choosing it as it seems to be the cheapest option. A certified, experienced surgeon will be able to give you honest advice.

Average price of gynecomastia surgery

According to a survey in 2015 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of gynecomastia surgery is $3,345. This figure doesn’t include costs such as anesthesia, operating room facilities or other costs. In reality then, in the US, by the time you leave the hospital the price is likely to be anywhere from $5,000 – $8,000.

Average cost breakdowns might look something like this:

Service

Cost

Surgeon’s fee

$3000-$4500

Anesthesia

$500-$1500

Lab tests

$500-$1000

Post-surgery compression shirts /vests

$100-$500

Gynecomastia types: surgery cost

Different prices can be due to things including location or experience of the surgeon as well as how severe the gynecomastia is. Another key factor is how the surgery is done; the price of treating gyno with liposuction alone will be less than more severe cases which need a mastectomy as well. The price for unilateral (one-sided) surgery is likely to be lower than for operations on both sides. Prices for the most severe cases which may need some skin removal and re-sculpting will be even higher. An example of what the cost of different operations might be is given below:

These numbers are only a guide, and will vary as discussed above. As with any financial agreement it is crucial to ask for an estimate of your gynecomastia surgery costs before agreeing to the procedure. Make sure you know what is included in the price, as quoted prices sometimes may be ‘all inclusive’ whereas in other cases they might just be the surgeon’s fee. If things such as anesthesia, lab tests, consultation fees and post-procedure care are not included, you will need to make sure you know how much they will cost on top of the quoted price.

Summary

Gyno surgery costs are often not covered by insurance plans, so it’s vital to know the price before agreeing to treatment. The price will vary depending on location, the experience of the surgeon and the severity of the gynecomastia. Liposuction for breast reduction is likely to cost less than surgery involving a mastectomy.

The most important thing is to make sure the surgeon you choose is certified and experienced – and that you have a good relationship with them – in addition to offering a good price.